Storm Surfers 3D, 2012.
Directed by Justin McMillan and Christopher Nelius.
Starring Tom Carroll, Ross Clark-Jones and Ben Matson.
SYNOPSIS:
Australian surfing legends Tom Carroll and Ross Clarke-Jones go on the hunt for the biggest waves.
A key line in the documentary is when 45 year old surfer Russ Clarke-Jones declares that his colleague Tom Carroll, who is on the cusp of turning 50, brings out the boy within him. In essence this why the two friends team with storm forecaster Ben Matson as the best way for them to ward off being cranky old men is to go out searching for the biggest ocean waves to surf. Another principle cast member which is portrayed in all of its massive and terrifying beauty are the waves themselves.
Academy Award-nominee Toni Collette (The Sixth Sense) provides the voice over narration during the sequences where graphics are used to illustrate the travelling storm systems. Most of the insights into surfing come from Tom Carroll and Russ Clarke-Jones who obviously have a deep passion for what they do. The description of a wave wrapping around like a tunnel while the surfer rides straight through to the other side evokes a vivid understanding of thrill involved with the aquatic sport. The SurfCam places the viewer right in the middle of the action that one felt that they themselves were on the verge of getting drenched.
The 3D adds another dimension to the proceedings; however, it is not critical to be able to enjoy the slick production. The centre piece is the friendship of Tom Carroll and Russ Clarke-Jones who are twin spirits and their enthusiasm is contagious. Two questions that standout are: How they can afford to do what they do and why the family of Russ is barely mentioned (though his son does make a brief appearance)? The combination of death-defying risk taking and likeable characters may well result in Storm Surfers 3D making waves at the box office.
Flickering Myth Rating: Film ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie ★ ★ ★ ★
Trevor Hogg
Originally published September 11, 2012. Updated April 14, 2018.
